XC Experiences Rainy Day at Hagan Stone

Courtesy: NC A&T Sports Information

Release: 09/24/2011

Courtesy: NC A&T Sports Information

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By Lydia Reddicncataggies.com contributor

GREENSBORO -- Relax, eager and well rested is what the Aggies felt as they prepared to take the course on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Training through the meets has their mindset ready to compete. N.C. A&T men and women conquered another trail at the Greensboro XC Invitational Meet at Hagan Stone Park.

Junior Kristin Rush and Janessa Benn led the women through the course. The women came in 7th place out of 13 teams in their 5k run. Once again, junior Paris Simmons and freshman Christian Harrison, led the men's team. The men finished 6th out of 11 teams in their 8k run.

"The time to make a move is when the girls were slowing down going up the hills," said junior Kristin Rush.

The Aggies had to battle through the elements. The muddy curves and slippery hills made it hard to make a move against their opponents.

"I know I could have done a lot better if the weather was better, but I couldn't," said Harrison. "Every time I tried to speed up I kept slipping, and I was running through knee high puddles."

Some of the Aggies enjoyed the challenge of running in the rainy conditions. "I felt good," said senior Steve Liggins. "My legs kept tightening up on me in the past couple of meets, but they felt great today."

"It was raining in every part of the course, not just where the Aggies were running. So there are no excuses," said Associate Head Coach James Daniels.

The Aggies felt the support as Aggie Live Wire and other students were there. It was an all-time high for student support when it comes to the Aggies' cross country teams. The Aggies, mind and body, are ready for the 2nd Annual Historic Black College & University Challenge in Cary on Oct. 1.

"The team's mental toughness is advancing every week. We will get better," said Daniels.